This Tuesday, a quite lovely little album from Darkest Era happened to grace the world with its presence. I am, of course, talking of Severance. It’s a bit more traditional than some of the other releases of late, in that its simply a great metal album. Specifically, because I know some of you HAVE to have a genre, its a Melodic release, similar in fashion to Rhapsody of Fire or Iron Maiden, and a few others. Nothing but fine singing, metal riffing, and some epic Celtic musicianship.

Overall, the album plays similar in style to a mix of black metal, power metal, melodic, and gothic. You have the speed and simplicity inherent in the black metal style, powerfully delivered vocals and produced sound, a slightly mournful delivery of the lyrics, themselves not the usual happy or upbeat vocals, and a slower beat pattern. An excellent album from the Irish Darkest Era, t shows very well realized and polished sound, and bodes well for their future.

As the album delves into the dark side of Celtic folklore, Darkest Era’s tone perfectly reflects the shadows between the lessons that are inherent in the stories. Its a perfect album for a dark or stormy night, watching the lightning dance and listening to the rain tap at the glass. It’s a very powerful album, with a great sound.